Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that the country would remain steadfast in protecting Maldives.

During joint press conference held with Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen – who is on a two-day state visit to India, Modi said that Maldives was very important to India, and that the country would remain steadfast in providing any assistance needed.

Modi pledged to help widen the scope of services of Maldivian navy officers, as well as to help train Maldivian navy officers.

He noted that Maldives Investment Forum – scheduled to be held in Mumbai this year - would help widen scope of business and economic transactions between the two countries.

Modi said that no country could fully develop without assistance of other countries. And said that he felt the pleasure of a friend’s visit, with Yameen’s visit.

He noted that friendly relations between India and Maldives dated back to ancient times. And said that India was always ready to assist Maldives.